Elected officials want to be informed and responsive to their constituent's needs. A well-written letter can provide valuable information and feedback that helps the official choose an informed position. Note that because of heightened security measures ground mail is not a good way to get a message to the President or to your member of Congress. Do use the suggestions below to compose an email or fax for your elected officials.

To find contact information for all your elected officials (state and federal), visit Congress.org and type your zip code into the "Get Involved" box. A listing of all your legislators will come up. Click on the "contact" tab to get the official's website and street addresses. It's always best to go to the official's website and use their email form to send your email correspondence. If you'd rather fax your letter, use the fax number listed for the official.

1. Use the correct form of address:

President and Vice President

The President of the United StatesThe White HouseWashington, DC 20500

Dear President __________:

The Vice President of the United StatesExecutive Office BuildingWashington, DC 20501

The Honorable ________________ _____ House Office Bldg.(rm #) (name)United States House of RepresentativesWashington, DC 20515

Dear Representative ___________:

Governors and Lieutenant Governors

The Honorable _____________Governor of the State of __________State Capital

Dear Governor ___________:

The Honorable _____________Lieutenant Governor of the State of__________State Capital

Dear Lieutenant Governor _________:

2. Avoid form letters; personal letters have more impact.

3. Identify yourself and your organization.

4. Be concise. Brief letters are more effective and more likely to be read than long ones. Offer to elaborate if requested. Address only one issue in each letter.

5. Be specific. Write about current issues or legislation. If you are asking for support of a specific bill include its number and name, title or subject (House bill: H.R. _____, Senate bill: S. _____). Communicate how the legislation impacts you, your colleagues, and your students, if possible.

6. Don't ask for the impossible. Politics is the art of the possible.

7. Use personal or institutional letterhead which includes your return address and contact information.

8. Increase your letter's impact by sending copies to your senators, city councilors, and members of Congress.

9. Ask for a reply. You're entitled to know your legislator's position and reasoning.

10. Follow up with a phone call within a week of mailing your letter.

11. Timing is essential. Know how the legislative process works. Send your letter when the bill first reaches committee to have the greatest impact. Follow up with a phone call or another letter before the bill is voted on.